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Simultaneous interpretation systems for your events

When to use simultaneous interpretation

Simultaneous interpretation, also known as conference interpreting, involves the transmission of an interpretation to a listening audience while the original speech is being delivered. For example, suppose you are at a conference and the speaker is speaking French. Listening to an interpreter interpreting French (the floor language) and translating it into English will allow you and other audience members to follow along. A special set of headphones will allow you to hear the interpreter. There are a number of pros and cons to this method. The main benefit is that it does not interrupt the flow of speech, but it requires a specialized set of interpreter equipment and highly skilled interpreter (or pair of interpreters).

Simultaneous interpreting is most frequently used in formal or large group settings in which one individual is speaking to an audience rather than in casual contexts. For example:

Conferences on diplomacy
International conventions
Board meetings or business meetings
Training programs
Courtrooms
Presentations and lectures
Tour Guides

The type of interpretation services provided by this type of company often require audio-visual equipment, such as wireless receivers, headsets, and microphones to transmit messages quickly to a large audience. Below are a few examples of typical setups for simultaneous interpretation:

· Permanent installations

In a major conference facility, such as the European Parliament, the United Nations, there are permanent simultaneous interpretation systems. Interpreters work in booths, which are basically small rooms with doors. For obvious reasons, it is not very mobile, even though it is the most convenient and comfortable setup.

· Portable/mobile setups

There are not many permanent installations at hotels and other venues. Rather than bringing in (mobile) booths from outside, portable (portable) booths are needed to be brought in and installed before the conference begins. There must always be a minimum of two interpreters per booth per language, and at some conferences three interpreters per booth per language are used.

· Whispering Equipment:

There is a wireless handheld transmitter and a standard wireless receiver included in the device. In addition to being useful for tours and if participants are required to move around a great deal, it would not be suitable for a standard conference in one room.

What Simultaneous Interpretation equipment is inside the simultaneous interpretation booth?

· Interpreter Headset:

It is the responsibility of the audio technician to provide headsets to all interpreters

· Tabletop Microphones

Professional conference interpreters are often in possession of their own conference headsets. Manufacturers of headsets have headset models designed for the best voice reproduction and for simultaneous interpretation.

It is essential that the headsets used by interpreters are binaural, that is, the interpreter must be able to hear both ears.

· Interpreter Microphones:

Interpreter microphones come in three major types:

Headsets with integrated microphones. A flexible gooseneck arm is used to attach the microphone to the headset. This is the most practical and convenient method. If you move your head, the distance between the interpreter’s mouth and the microphone remains the same. A console can have an integrated interpreter microphone. Though less convenient, this option is equally legitimate. A dedicated microphone connector (usually an XLR) is located on the top surface of the interpreter console for attaching a gooseneck microphone. The interpreter desk could have a separate mic connected to the interpreter console using a cable, or a standalone tabletop microphone.

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